Eagle Oval Bead Patch

Proudly display this Eagle patch to show your Wood Badge loyalty. For all those who can claim, "I used to be a eagle".This is a great gift for your patrol at reunions or to give to your patrol as a Thank You for the great memories.

In looking for a suitable recognition for the 19 men who completed the first Wood Badge course, the hero of the 217 day siege of the South African town of Mafeking in 1900 found among his old army trophies and souvenirs a long necklace of quaintly carved wooden beads. In 1888, during the African Zulu wars, Baden-Powell found the necklace in a hut that had been recently deserted by the African King Dinizulu (Dinny-Zulu).

He presented each man who had taken part in the camp with one of the beads. They were badges of wood. The beads gave the training its name - the Wood Badge Course.

These simple wooden beads signify the completion of the training course soon became one of the most highly prized possessions a scoutmaster could have. When the original beads ran out, the Gilwell training staff whittled others to keep the tradition established by Baden-Powell.

Two simple wooden beads knotted on a leather thong have come to signify that the wearer has completed the most respected scout training program and is dedicated to the highest standards of service.